Fun Thanksgiving Crafts for Tweens: Amazing DIY Ideas

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Hey tweens! Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the spirit than with some awesome crafts? Forget the boring stuff; we're talking about super cool, fun thanksgiving crafts for tweens that'll make your friends say, "Whoa, you made that?" This isn't your little sibling's construction paper turkeys; we're leveling up with projects that are both creative and actually fun to do. From jazzy decorations to personalized gifts and even ways to show what you're thankful for, this article is packed with ideas. Get ready to dive into easy-to-follow steps that will transform your home into a Thanksgiving wonderland, and maybe even make some killer presents. We’ll explore some seriously cool ideas that'll impress everyone at the dinner table. So grab your glue, scissors, and a bit of imagination, and let's get crafting!

Easy and Fun Thanksgiving Crafts for Tweens

Coffee Filter Fall Leaves

Okay, let's kick things off with something super simple but totally awesome: coffee filter fall leaves. I know what you're thinking, "Coffee filters? Really?" But trust me, these are way cooler than they sound. You just need some coffee filters, markers, and a spray bottle with water. Color the filters with your favorite fall colors – think reds, oranges, yellows, and browns. Then, lightly spritz them with water, and watch the colors blend and swirl together. Once they're dry, they look like real, tie-dye leaves! Cut them into leaf shapes and you've got some instant decorations or use them to make a cool garland.

It's like magic, but with craft supplies. Plus, it’s a great way to use those extra coffee filters your parents have lying around. I love how unique each leaf turns out.

Paper Bag Turkeys

Next up, let's make some adorable paper bag turkeys. These are perfect if you're looking for something quick and easy but still looks amazing. Grab some brown paper lunch bags, construction paper, googly eyes, and glue. Stuff the bags with newspaper or scrap paper to give them a bit of shape. Then, cut out colorful feathers from the construction paper and glue them to the back of the bag. Add googly eyes and a beak cut from yellow paper, and you've got yourself a cute little turkey. You can even draw on some fun details, like little feet or funny expressions.

These are great for a table decoration or even as a little puppet show prop! I like that they can be customized to each person's liking.

Gratitude Jar

Okay, so this one is less about crafting and more about feeling good. Let’s make a gratitude jar. Take any jar, it doesn't need to be fancy, and decorate it however you like. You can use paint, markers, stickers, or even some of those coffee filter leaves we made earlier. Then, grab some small pieces of paper and a pen. Each day (or whenever you feel like it), write down something you’re thankful for and pop it into the jar. It can be anything, from your pet to a good grade to a friend who made you laugh.

I think this is a great way to remember all the good things in our lives, especially around Thanksgiving. Plus, on Thanksgiving Day, you can read them all out loud. It’s a feel-good craft that gives back.

Creative Thanksgiving Decoration Crafts for Tweens

Mason Jar Luminaries

Alright, let's get into some seriously cool decorations that'll make your house look like a fall wonderland. First up, we've got mason jar luminaries. Grab some mason jars (you probably have a few lying around), some fall-colored tissue paper, Mod Podge, and a paintbrush. Cut the tissue paper into small squares or strips, then apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the outside of the jar. Stick the tissue paper pieces on, overlapping them a bit to create a mosaic effect. Once the whole jar is covered, add another layer of Mod Podge to seal it. Let it dry, pop in a battery-operated tea light, and boom! You've got a gorgeous, glowing luminary that screams fall.

I like how the light shines through the colored tissue paper, creating a warm and cozy ambiance. It's like having tiny fall lanterns all over your house!

Pinecone Turkeys

Next, let’s make some cute little pinecone turkeys. This is a great way to bring the outdoors in! If you can find some pinecones in your backyard or a park, grab a bunch. You'll also need some felt, googly eyes, and glue. Cut the felt into feather shapes (think fall colors again!) and glue them to the back of the pinecone. Then, glue on some googly eyes and a little beak cut from felt or paper. These little guys are super cute and make a perfect table decoration, or you can even put them on a shelf. Plus, they are a great way to use items from nature. I think they give a rustic vibe to the whole Thanksgiving setup.

These pinecone turkeys are super cute and easy to make. It's great to use natural items to make decorations.

Fall-Themed Garland

Okay, let’s add some festive vibes to your room or living room with a fall-themed garland. You can use all sorts of materials for this. Grab some colorful cardstock, and cut out leaf shapes, pumpkins, and other fall symbols. You can also use those coffee filter leaves we made earlier. Punch holes in the top of each piece and string them together with twine or yarn. If you want to get extra fancy, add some beads or small wooden shapes. Hang it up and voila! You've got a festive garland that'll brighten up any space.

I like that you can customize it with your own colors and shapes! It's a simple craft, but it makes a big difference in the overall look and feel of the room.

DIY Thanksgiving Gift Crafts for Tweens

Personalized Mugs

Okay, let's talk about gifts! First up, personalized mugs are always a hit, and they're super easy to make. Grab some plain white mugs from the store, and some permanent markers (make sure they're safe for ceramics!). Then, get creative! You can draw fall-themed designs, write inspirational quotes, or even put the person's name on it. Once you're done, bake the mugs in the oven at a low temperature to set the design. Now you've got a unique, custom gift that's perfect for sipping hot cocoa or tea on a chilly day. I like that this gift is practical and thoughtful, something people can actually use.

It's a great way to show someone you care, plus it's fun to make. Remember to check the marker instructions for specific baking times and temperatures. Don't want to ruin your masterpiece!.

Handmade Bookmarks

Next, let's create some lovely handmade bookmarks. These are perfect for all the bookworms in your life, and they are so easy to personalize. You can use cardstock, construction paper, or even some of those coffee filter leaves we made earlier. Cut them into strips, and then decorate them with markers, paint, stickers, or anything else you like. You can even laminate them to make them extra durable. Add a tassel made from yarn or string to the top for an extra touch. These bookmarks are a sweet little gesture that shows you put some thought into their gift. I think they are a perfect little present that's both useful and cute.

They're a great way to use up any leftover crafting materials, too! Plus, who doesn't need a good bookmark?

Miniature Succulent Gardens

Alright, for our last gift idea, let’s make some adorable miniature succulent gardens. These are not only cute but also super easy to care for, making them perfect for anyone. You’ll need some small pots or containers, potting soil, and a few small succulents. Arrange the succulents in the pots, add a bit of decorative gravel or moss, and you've got a mini garden that will brighten up any space. You can even paint the pots or add ribbons to make them extra special. These little gardens are a great way to bring a touch of nature indoors, and they make a thoughtful gift that keeps on giving. I love that they are a long-lasting gift and bring a bit of life to any room.

Plus, they are great for people who don’t have a lot of time or skills for gardening. It's a gift that's both beautiful and low-maintenance!

Thanksgiving Gratitude Crafts for Tweens

Thankful Tree

Alright, let's switch gears and focus on what Thanksgiving is really about: gratitude! A "thankful tree" is a beautiful way to display all the things you're grateful for. Grab a large branch from outside (or use a paper cutout of a tree), and place it in a vase or pot. Then, cut out some leaf shapes from colorful paper. On each leaf, write down something you’re thankful for. It can be anything: your family, friends, a pet, a favorite hobby, or even a good meal. Attach the leaves to the branch using string or tape. As you add more leaves, your tree will grow into a visual representation of all the good things in your life. This is a craft that not only looks great but also reminds us to appreciate what we have. I like how it turns a simple branch into something meaningful and beautiful.

It's a great way to reflect on all the positive things and makes for a very personal decoration. It's like a living gratitude journal!

Gratitude Banner

Next, let's create a gratitude banner. This is a fun and festive way to display your thankfulness for everyone to see. You can use cardstock, fabric scraps, or even those coffee filter leaves we made earlier. Cut out triangle or rectangle shapes and decorate them with markers, paint, or stickers. On each piece, write down something you're thankful for. You can also add drawings or other designs to make it extra special. Then, string the pieces together with twine or yarn to create a banner. Hang it up in your room, living room, or anywhere you want to spread some gratitude vibes. I think it is a great way to make your feelings visible and add a personal touch to your Thanksgiving decorations.

It's a simple craft, but it carries a powerful message. Plus, it’s a great activity to do with family or friends. You could even create a new banner every year!